Whitney Praises Osbourne as Midfielder Earns a New Deal

2:20 pmFriday, 5 August 2016

Following the news that central midfielder Isaiah Osbourne had put pen-to-paper on a new one-year contract with the club, Walsall manager Jon Whitney has spoken to club journalists and has praised the former Aston Villa apprentice for his hard work in recovering from a serious injury to earn a new deal.

Following the news that central midfielder Isaiah Osbourne had put pen-to-paper on a new one-year contract with the club, Walsall manager Jon Whitney has spoken to club journalists and has praised the former Aston Villa apprentice for his hard work in recovering from a serious injury to earn a new deal.

Speaking via Saddlers.co.uk, Jon said; "He gives us a physical presence but he’s much more than that. It’s his application and his work ethic and he’s a very popular member of the group. I see him as a leader amongst men and he’ll be an important player both on and off the pitch for us. He fits perfectly into the environment that we’re trying to create at the club.

"I’ve spent a long time with him over the past year and he’s been through some tough days in and out of hospital with his injury. But together we saw a chink of light and he’s come a long way because of how hard he works and his application.

"He’s proven himself and his fitness and committed himself to the club for a month during pre-season. Now it’s up to me to show my loyalty and commitment and that’s why he’s earned a one-year contract."